Daddy Yankee, born Ramón Luis Ayala Rodríguez on February 3, 1977, in San Juan, Puerto Rico, is a pioneering reggaeton artist, rapper, singer, songwriter, and producer who has been instrumental in popularizing the reggaeton genre worldwide. Known as the "King of Reggaeton," Daddy Yankee began his musical journey in the early 1990s, merging Puerto Rican hip-hop, dancehall, and Latin influences to create a distinctive sound that would eventually define reggaeton. His 2004 breakthrough album, *Barrio Fino*, featured the global hit "Gasolina," which became one of the first reggaeton songs to achieve international success, propelling Daddy Yankee into the mainstream and helping to establish reggaeton as a dominant force in global music.

Following the success of *Barrio Fino*, Daddy Yankee continued to build on his momentum with a string of successful albums, including *El Cartel: The Big Boss* (2007), *Mundial* (2010), and *Prestige* (2012), each showcasing his versatility as an artist and his ability to blend reggaeton with other genres such as hip-hop, pop, and salsa. His music often touches on themes of street life, love, and celebration, delivered with infectious energy and memorable hooks. Over the years, Daddy Yankee has collaborated with a wide range of artists, including Snoop Dogg, Luis Fonsi, and Bad Bunny, expanding his influence across genres and cementing his status as a global music icon.

One of his most notable achievements came in 2017 with the release of "Despacito," a collaboration with Luis Fonsi that became a worldwide phenomenon, topping charts in dozens of countries and becoming one of the most-streamed songs of all time. The song's success marked a turning point in the visibility of Latin music in the global market, demonstrating Daddy Yankee's enduring ability to craft hits that resonate across cultures. His career is marked not only by commercial success but also by numerous awards and accolades, including Latin Grammy Awards, Billboard Music Awards, and recognition as one of the most influential people in the world by *Time* magazine.

Beyond music, Daddy Yankee has ventured into acting, business, and philanthropy, using his platform to support various charitable causes, particularly those that benefit children and underserved communities in Puerto Rico and beyond. His influence extends beyond entertainment, as he continues to be a prominent advocate for his culture and a role model for aspiring artists. In 2022, he announced his retirement from music with the release of his final album, *Legendaddy*, marking the end of an era for one of the most significant figures in Latin music history. Despite his retirement, Daddy Yankee's legacy as a trailblazer of reggaeton and a global ambassador of Latin music will continue to inspire and impact generations to come.